Alcoholics Anonymous — First Edition, Fifteenth Printing (January 1954)

Alcoholics Anonymous Big Book

First Edition — Fifteenth Printing (January 1954)

Reproduction Dust Jacket

Publisher: Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
Publication Date: January 1954
Edition: First Edition, Fifteenth Printing
Binding: Navy blue cloth hardcover
Dust Jacket: Reproduction with original flaps present

Description

Offered here is a First Edition, Fifteenth Printing (January 1954) of Alcoholics Anonymous, commonly known as the Big Book. This printing holds unique historical importance as it was intended to be the final printing of the First Edition, produced in anticipation of the long-planned release of the Second Edition in 1955.

However, continued growth in A.A. membership and concern over inventory shortages required the Fellowship to issue a Sixteenth Printing later in 1954, extending the life of the First Edition just a bit longer. As a result, the Fifteenth Printing represents the final planned First Edition, marking the close of an era in A.A. publishing history.

This printing is also historically significant as the first Big Book issued under the newly formed publishing entity, “Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.” All earlier printings of the First Edition were published by Works Publishing, Inc., making this volume the organizational bridge between A.A.’s earliest publishing structure and its modern form.

Key Identifying Points

• First Edition, Fifteenth Printing
• Published January 1954
• First Big Book printed under Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
• Intended final First Edition printing
• Navy blue cloth boards with gilt lettering

Condition

Book: Good condition overall. The navy blue cloth boards show general wear and staining consistent with age and use. There is handwriting on the first page of the book and on a page at the back of the book. No other writing or markings noted within the text. Binding remains intact.

Dust Jacket: Reproduction dust jacket present. The  flaps from the original jacket were adhered at the back of the book. The remainder of the original jacket is not present with this book.

Please review all photographs carefully for exact condition details.

Historical & Collector Significance

The Fifteenth Printing stands at a pivotal moment in Big Book history:

• Final planned printing of the First Edition
• First appearance of Alcoholics Anonymous Publishing, Inc.
• Produced during A.A.’s transition toward the Second Edition

For collectors of First Edition Big Books, A.A. publishing history, or transitional printings, this volume represents an important closing chapter of the Fellowship’s original foundational text.

A historically important First Edition Fifteenth Printing — the last planned First Edition Big Book, bridging A.A.’s earliest years with its modern publishing era.